Are Watchmen and Security Staff Considered Workers Under Section 2(i) of the Factories Act in Maharashtra?

Dear All,

We have many factories where we have deployed watchmen, security personnel, caretakers, and a controller to monitor vehicle movements. I would like to determine whether the individuals employed in these roles at the factory fall under the category of workers as per Section 2(i) of the Factories Act. Location: Maharashtra.

Thank you / Regards,
Vinod

As per Section 2(1) of the Factories Act, all the aforementioned individuals are considered workmen. Even under the Industrial Disputes Act, these individuals are also classified as workmen.

Every employee, whether inside or outside, is considered a worker, irrespective of the type of work they do, as long as they fulfill their duties for the company or employer.

Thank you.
Regards

I would like to inform you that there is an order of the Karnataka High Court in The Govt Shop Factory Vs. Presiding Officer, 1970, where the court held that watchmen are not considered workers as per the Factory Act Section 2(l). If anyone has information about this and any other references where we can establish that watchmen are classified as workers according to the Factory Act, please share.

Thank you,

Vinod